Dyche, boss of now-Championship Burnley, was hours from landing the job in the summer, before Advocaat changed his mind about retiring.

He has reservations over taking it this time, with Burnley doing well in the second tier and Sunderland 19th in the top flight and facing yet another relegation fight after Saturday's home draw with West Ham.

But a formal approach, with the promise of loyalty if Sunderland go down, would give him a difficult decision to make.

Nigel Pearson, who saved Leicester from the drop last season from an almost impossible position, also fits the club’s demand for experience - a requirement which rules out Arsenal legend and Manchester City U21s boss Patrick Vieira.

Making plans for Nigel? Pearson has the top flight experience Sunderland are looking for (Image: Plumb Images)

Out of work Sam Allardyce, currently on a sabbatical recharging his batteries, is understood to be reluctant to take the job.

To add to the sense of chaos on Wearside, sporting director Lee Congerton has been ordered to find Advocaat’s successor even though he has himself handed in his notice.

Chairman Ellis Short has blocked Congerton's departure, at least until he finds the club a new head coach.

Sunderland are searching for their fifth manager since Steve Bruce was sacked in November 2011, after Advocaat’s decision to quit was confirmed on Sunday afternoon.

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The 68-year-old Dutchman, who kept the club up after being appointed in March and leaves without banking a pay-off, said in a statement: “I want to thank everyone who has stood behind me.

"This is a very special football club, with so many great people, but I feel it is the right time to do this - not for me, but for the club.

“I have made the decision to go after only eight games as I felt it was important to give everyone time turn things around - like we did last year.

"I am thankful to the chairman for understanding my feelings and I remain on good terms with everyone at the club.

Mission accomplished: Delight for Advocaat as a draw at Arsenal in May guarantees survival (Image: Reuters / Eddie Keogh)

“I wish Ellis, Lee (Congerton), all of the staff, players and of course the supporters, who made me feel so welcome here, the very best of luck for the rest of the season. I have some wonderful memories to take with me and I hope I will return to see everybody again in the future.”

Short said: “I am truly saddened by Dick’s decision, but I respect him for his honesty and for doing what he feels is right for the club.

"He is a man of integrity and a true football person. He was hugely respectful of the club in taking this decision and he acted 100% in our best interests.